KNOWLEDGE OF NURSING PROFESSIONALS ABOUT THE EFFECTS CAUSED BY THE USE OF AYAHUASCA TEA ENFERMAGEM E CHÁ DE AYAHUASCA

Abstract

Objective: to identify whether the nursing professional recognizes the effects of ayahuasca tea, as well as whether they can take full care of patients who are under these effects. Method:  This is a research with a quanti-quali approach, of the descriptive type structured from an online questionnaire, composed of eleven multiple choice questions that evaluated the nursing professional's knowledge about ayahuasca tea, its mechanism of action and the most appropriate way to care for a patient who is about these effects. Results:  Of  the 105 nurses, 74.3% were unaware of tea substances, 41.9% opted for mydriasis, tremors and sweating as physical effects of tea, 54% proposed to avoid the use of tea concomitantly with beta-blockers and tricyclic antidepressants, 39% would install as a nursing diagnosis to the patient in serotonergic anxiety syndrome, risk of electrolytic imbalance and ineffective tissular perfusion, 56.2% stated that the appropriate way to approach the theme without disrespecting it is to stimulate the patient's strengths, enhancing their choices and self-control.  Discussion: Nurses do not understand the mechanisms of action of tea, as well as its effects, which compromises comprehensive care. Conclusion: When care is on the agenda, one cannot think of another professional but the nurse, and itis up to him to articulate scientific knowledge with the practices assistance to achieve integrality.